“For the kingdom of God does not consist in words but in power.” (1 Cor. 4:20)

Paul is providing us a contrast that I think is more vivid today than in his time. Today we have words and information at our fingertips. With the click of a mouse we can view thousands of pieces of information in minutes. We can see more words in a day than most people would see in a lifetime in Paul’s day. But has that made us any smarter? Are we wiser because of all the words we have access to? I would affirm not!

Words alone are groupings of letters. Words must have meaning to have any value at all. But that isn’t all. Words must be put into sentences that speak truth. Without conveying what is true or real, the words, once again, are meaningless. The kingdom of God is not about words. It is about truth and reality. And it is that truth and reality that give power to the message of the kingdom of God. Paul says in Romans, “I am not ashamed of the gospel for it is the power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes.”

The kingdom of God has the market on words that have power because they are true and real. God’s Word is living and active. It has the power to give life, hope, and peace. It has the power to transform our lives. Embedded into each word and sentence is the power of the Holy Spirit to give life to lifeless hearts and souls.

May we today and every day be in contact with the powerful Word of the kingdom of God.